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AFP Clears The Lodge After Reported Bomb Threat As Albanese Returns

Investigators are examining a threat reportedly tied to a Shen Yun message.

Overview

  • Australian Federal Police responded about 6pm AEDT Tuesday, relocating the prime minister from The Lodge before he returned around 9pm following a full search.
  • Police said nothing suspicious was found and there is no current threat to the community or public safety.
  • Multiple outlets report the alert was linked to a message sent to local Shen Yun organisers that claimed explosives had been placed near the residence, though police have not identified the source.
  • Albanese on Wednesday thanked police and urged Australians to "turn the heat down" as the investigation continues.
  • The episode comes amid a documented rise in threats against politicians, with the AFP reporting 951 referrals in 2024–25, a 63% increase over four years, and establishing new investigation teams in 2025.